Flower_girl | ExpatWoman.com
 

Flower_girl

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Latest post on 05 May 2011 - 11:11
between 5-6 weeks ... AFTER I complained that I didn't 'feel pregnant' despite pregnancy test and blood test confirmed it ... i know better next time to not complain :)
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Latest post on 04 May 2011 - 17:56
I highly recommend go@Africa. They are based out of South Africa but they can arrange any trip for you - you just have to sort out your flight. SUPERB vacation we had. The person you should contact is: diederik at Go2Africa (diederik@go2africa.com) Tell him you got the details from his country(wo)man living in Dubai :) More info: http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=126046 Kenya is so beautiful and we too went in August. Just let Diederik know your budget and what you'd like to see and do! Forgot to mention: we used Qatar Airways back then - and from the moment we landed all got taken care of by Diederik. I think there are other 'budget' airlines that flies to Nairobi now... <em>edited by Flower_girl on 04/05/2011</em>
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Latest post on 04 May 2011 - 17:48
I have something else to add.... are you the rescuer, the persecutor or the victim? We tend to sit in one of these corners. These are the things that STOP us living great lives The rescuer - takes on too much work, carries people's shopping, does things thinking they are helping out The victim - oh life is so unfair to me. Joe Bloggs is SO luck The persecutor - i couldn't do my work as I was waiting on Joe Bloggs to finish his bit. it's your fault I'm in a bad mood Next time you feel yourself using some of the above language STOP... readdress and live authentically! E x Thanks for adding this ... I tend to be a rescuer but can sometimes be a persecutor too ... live authentically - how do you do that?
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Latest post on 04 May 2011 - 12:59
i thought so too - and some are rather hillarious, no?
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Latest post on 26 April 2011 - 15:11
I have seen them on Carter's website (US) but it seems UAE doens't have them ... called: MCC, MOE, Arabian Centre and no luck :( srdoucet - will check the festival city for a print one.
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Latest post on 24 April 2011 - 13:08
scarlett78 and ecossedl, what are the costs involved for the agencies you have mentioned? I have also been looking for an agency that does this. Called them this is what I got quoted: Ethopian Dhs 1900 / month (they have them right now so you can meet and choose which one would suits you best) They also have Filipina (2400/month), and INdonesian Dhs 2200 Admin fee: 2500 (non refundable one time payment) The price quoted is for a 1 year contract. Needs to give Dhs 5000 undated Cheque which you will get back when you return the maid to the agency. Am interested in the Indonesian one but they don't have any right now ... Which agency? not Explorer and not Howdra... couldn't get the name from her properly (Shua Employment something ... sorry didn't hear it properly) just call Grace on the number mentioned if you want the exact name...
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Latest post on 24 April 2011 - 12:57
scarlett78 and ecossedl, what are the costs involved for the agencies you have mentioned? I have also been looking for an agency that does this. Called them this is what I got quoted: Ethopian Dhs 1900 / month (they have them right now so you can meet and choose which one would suits you best) They also have Filipina (2400/month), and INdonesian Dhs 2200 Admin fee: 2500 (non refundable one time payment) The price quoted is for a 1 year contract. Needs to give Dhs 5000 undated Cheque which you will get back when you return the maid to the agency. Am interested in the Indonesian one but they don't have any right now ...
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Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 17:34
Hey Tootsie - don't have any tips re your question ... just glad to know you've finally found a new maid! All the best with her!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Latest post on 13 April 2011 - 10:36
Nestle Nan, Hipp and believe Enfamil is also available in Belgium. (not sure about Enfamil being avialable in Dubai - sorry) <em>edited by Flower_girl on 13/04/2011</em>
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Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 13:16
The pharmacy in DSO is by the small spinneys - by Semer Villas (Emirates Villas). The number is 04 326 48 48 - they do delivery too!!! Direction: from Emirates Road, take the turn off to Al Ain Road - follow the sign to ACADEMIC CITY. 1st Round about turn left, 2nd Round about turn LEFT, follow the bend all the way to right - you'll come across 2 round about. small shopping area is on your left. Hope this helps - call them first because they do delivery so it'll saves you time!!
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Latest post on 06 March 2011 - 11:22
LOL ... I still live there but lunch times are spent in Silicon Oasis :)
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Latest post on 16 February 2011 - 10:27
Hi Shaf, which Mothercare did you see this in??? I've been looking for one here and was told at Mothercare in Ibn Battuta that they don't stock them anymore. Would love one for my little boy for when we are out and about! Saw this yesterday at Mirdiff City Centre Mothercare.... on a seperate note - has anyone used this one before? http://www.mothercare.com/Potette-PLUS-Travel-Potty-Trainer/dp/B001CFQWHW/sr=1-10/qid=1297685863/ref=sr_1_10/276-7697898-9831637?_encoding=UTF8&m=A2LBKNDJ2KZUGQ&n=42858041&mcb=core I have this and since we started potty training we don't leave home without it. We've used it in the park behind a tree, in the car park, in the car before a long drive home. its a travel potty and a toilet seat. i love love LOVE it! DD is just getting over an infection down there and a cold poor thing and has been super cranky. She's not been wanting to go to the bathroom but happy to sit on that Thanks Farsha202 - i think i will get this so it can be used as both a travel potty and a toilet seat...
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Latest post on 16 February 2011 - 10:18
We booked our flight with Qatar Airways and the whole week trip in Kenya was organised by Diederik from Go2Africa. You tell him exactly what you want to do and he will tailor your holiday as per your request/budget. We spent a day and 1 night at Lake Nakurubefore flying to Masai Mara for a few nights and flew back to Nairobi. Had our breakfast on the bonnet of the 4X4 in the middle of Masai under a tree surrounded by Wilde Beasts.. surreal. Saw the BIG 5 and more ... Can't recommend Diederik enough - he has lived and travelled in most part of Africa and is VERY knowledgeable in recommending clients what to do/see during their time .... Email: Diederik van den Hoeke - diederik@go2africa.com (you can tell him, you got his contact details from Belgian family in Dubai)
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Latest post on 15 February 2011 - 13:37
If you don't mind the drive - MAVEN spa in Uptown Mirdiff is great. Dhs 240-160 per 1 hour treatment. DH and I love it there - and they also sell a booklet of 12 vouchers (12 hours of treatment) for Dhs 2200 (so per sessino will cost Dhs 183 instead of 240-260). Brilliant service and just lovely massage that won't cost you an arm and leg.
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Latest post on 14 February 2011 - 16:19
Hi Shaf, which Mothercare did you see this in??? I've been looking for one here and was told at Mothercare in Ibn Battuta that they don't stock them anymore. Would love one for my little boy for when we are out and about! Saw this yesterday at Mirdiff City Centre Mothercare.... on a seperate note - has anyone used this one before? http://www.mothercare.com/Potette-PLUS-Travel-Potty-Trainer/dp/B001CFQWHW/sr=1-10/qid=1297685863/ref=sr_1_10/276-7697898-9831637?_encoding=UTF8&m=A2LBKNDJ2KZUGQ&n=42858041&mcb=core
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Latest post on 14 February 2011 - 14:54
Bali is gorgeous but I agree with other posters who say it is similar to Sri Lanka.. within 5 mins of leaving the airport in Sri Lanka I was telling DH it reminded me so much of Bali, although Sri Lanka was a bit rougher round the edges. I would think Sri Lanka more exciting for kids with the elephant sanctuary and national parks FYI - Bali has various animal parks too - just incase someone think it's only beach place. Loads of activities for kids including waterpark (Waterbom) white waterrafting, biking thru the ricefields, birdpark, elephant park, etc...
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Latest post on 14 February 2011 - 10:24
Sleepyhead - just wonders which airline do you take to go to Bali? We have booked flights in the past with Singapore Airlines and Qatar Airways for a little less than Dhs 3000 per person tax included. So book in advance if you can. I know exactly what you mean with a change of scenery - GREENERY for one!! I am fortunate enough to know Bali, not from a tourist perspective only. I just love the idea of having our own 'house' away from home (Dubai) ... and a private Villa gives you just that. by the way, Villa YoYo has a massive garden so the 6 kids can even play soccer whilst the adults sunbaths by the pool sipping cocktails .... aahh I want to book my ticket to Bali too
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Latest post on 14 February 2011 - 09:37
Sleepyhead - when are you looking to book for Bali? A villa is definetely the way to go with 4 adults and 6 kids. You can check out websites such as http://www.bhmvillas.com and choose a villa from there and compare prices with other sites or go direct too. If you want to have 1 villa, I would suggest to take 4-6 bedrooms at least. Do you want swimming pool included in the villa? Seminya is good location .... Personally I've stayed at [b'>Villa Yoyo [/b'>(http://www.baliluxuryvillas.com/bali-villas-yoyo.html) The 2 rooms downstairs are interconnected for parents with younger children, if needed. I also liked [b'>Villa Atas Ombak [/b'>but was not available for the dates we wanted it... It is a walking distance to the beach and restaurants (or a 5 mins taxi if needed a little further..) Restaurants nearby are the likes of Kudeta, Breeze Restaurant (By Legian Hotel)... Just watch when you do a search for "Seminyak" area as it is big and can also be on the boarder with Canggu. When you book a villa, see if they can provide you a car and driver too - this way you can use this driver to see around Bali and give you personal tour too. A good english speaking driver with good knowledge of Bali is PERFECT :) Is this your first holiday to Bali? Enjoy planning and hopefully you'll have a brilliant holiday.
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Latest post on 13 February 2011 - 16:10
Missymoo - where do you live - because it would be 'easier' if we can recommend a good Pediatrician closer by to you ....
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Latest post on 13 February 2011 - 15:07
For anyone still looking for it ... I've seen this (often) in Waitrose at Dubai Mall ....
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Latest post on 13 February 2011 - 11:16
I would say have both :) Bumbo seats are great! You can take it anywhere and make DS feel part of the 'gang'. We took bumbo seat for a picnic, to the beach, and just to friends' houses too. Our DS started crawling around 7-8 monts and I read mix reveiws on the 'walker' and decided to go against using walker but a jumperoo ... DS LOVED IT! Once he started to realise how the 'thing' work, he would jump 'high' ... funny sight. If price is a factor (as it cost about Dhs 700+) see if you can get it from Dubizzle. (Fisher-Price) Once DS started to crawl, I switch times ... especially when I like DS to stay put in one place for a minute or two.... (when nature calls) I put DS in his Jumperoo. the Fisher-Price has various toys for little one to play with whilst sitting in them .... I don't know if it is because of the jumperoo - but i feel DS has strong leg muscles.... and when he started to walk at 13 months, he was instantly a strong walker ... thanks to jumperoo I think ...
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Latest post on 13 February 2011 - 10:52
check out Baros www.baros.com It's about 20 mins with a speedboat... DH isn't a fan of boats either, but it was well worth it! Spent 7 days there as part of our honeymoon ... heaven on earth for us :)
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Latest post on 01 February 2011 - 02:18
Does anyone know what happens if your child turns 2 after departure but before your travel? (eg. flying at 23 months and return when LO is 25 months old) Did you pay for an infant price on the way out and a 1-way ticket child price upon your return?? Anyone in the travel industry that can enlighten me on this please?
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Latest post on 31 January 2011 - 20:59
I am a UK passport holder and purchased a one way ticket from outside of Britain to initially fly to Dubai, prior to receiving my residency visa. Everything went smoothly. No problems at passport control. Thanks for the info Mabel - but did your/Dh's employer process a residency visa? We will be coming completely as a "tourist" no potential employer to sponsor DH as yet .... Is this possible?
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Latest post on 31 January 2011 - 20:50
We are currently in Belgium and looking for flights back to UAE on one way ticket but we don't have our residency visa....
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Latest post on 31 January 2011 - 20:41
Has anyone bought a one-way ticket to Dubai - when you don't have a residence visa, but holds an EU/UK passport (no visa required)... I know my question may seem 'silly' but wonders if this is possible.... Thanks
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Latest post on 31 January 2011 - 00:29
I would highly recommend to choose a private villa over a hotel... you have complete privacy with own swimming pool .... the websites such as balivillas.com is good. We usually go end of June/early July and the weather is similar to the 'winter weather' of Dubai... As for the Bali-Belly - I would not buy drinks that has ice in if it is not in a reputable hotels/bar/cafes (such as a small stall ...) Bring the hand sanitizer with you at all times ... and make sure what you eat is all properly cooked. If you follow this, there is no need for Imodium! Depending on how long you plan to go - you can do the following: A - a few nights in Seminyak - great area with great restaurants at walking distances to the beach and entertainment B - a few nights in Ubud - artistic town, middle of the rice fields, green and beautiful. Do your white water rafting here (watch what you eat over lunch - and bring those sanitizer along with you :))) C - Lovina/Menjangan (North of Bali) for Diving/Snorkling purposes C - Candi Desa - East of Bali - Diving/Snorkling and just gorgeous... Restaurants to visits ... Made's Warung (the original one) in Kuta Cafe Des Artis (Ubud) of course Kudeta and Rock Bar (Ayana Resorts - in Nusa Dua - what used to be the Ritz Carlton).... need anymore info let me know .... Bali, my 2nd home :D
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Latest post on 23 January 2011 - 11:10
And this, it really is good. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-1348125/Baby-Bottom-Butter-creme-la-creme-face-creams.html can I get this here???
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Latest post on 23 January 2011 - 10:49
DH made DS's 1st birthday cake - sponge cake decorated with fruits and cream. Healthy and everyone was able to eat it (used less sugar than usual ..) Another idea that I like is the pancake (crepes are better than the American type of pancake in my opinion) birthday cake. layer it, cover it with cream, or nutella, or whatever, fruits and candle ... and you have a delicious homemade birthday cake :)
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Latest post on 20 January 2011 - 15:32
Depending on the time of the year, my skin is either normal to dry (winter) or normal to oily (summer)....is that possible by the way??? In the past I have used brands from Ponds and Oil of Olay to Estee Lauder and Clinic ... but for moisturizer and exfoilater... but want to try something else as I am not fully satisfied right now. oh and I fall under 30-35 age group ...
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Latest post on 20 January 2011 - 15:25
Bump to see if anyone else has opinion on this product? By the way, if you use this, what do you use it for? moisturing face? for scar, etc?
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Latest post on 18 January 2011 - 11:59
thank you for the suggestions so far - will research more now. Anyone else been to Istanbul? An average of EURO 50-60 per night seems to be reasonable ... suggestions?
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Latest post on 17 January 2011 - 18:09
or u cud upload them all on to shutterfly and they have these offers for 10cents a print, so u get like 600prints, 4x6 for 10cents each. U could get one of those :) Shaf - just signed up to Shutterfly - Because I want to print them in a book (like a magazine) - do they deliver to Dubai?
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Latest post on 17 January 2011 - 11:44
Thank you for your suggestions EU-Sweetheart and Dutchdesert ... I THINK I found what we want - Centerpacs Epperheide ... considering we are going end of this month, and entertaining 4 children we think that the indoor-tropical waterpark would be great ... and it's on the border area between Holland and Belgium ... Next time when we go in the summer I'd like to consider the Landal one - where the weather will allow us to do some biking too .... oh and buying fresh bread .... something we miss here! ps: how does it feel being in Dubai after 5 yrs there? Dutchdesert - website worked but not when I do searches ... so have emailed them yesterday early evening.... (name wise suggests that you are Dutch ... are you?)
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Latest post on 16 January 2011 - 17:50
FloridaGirl - just make sure you are fullyclothed when playing xbox kinect :) LOL <em>edited by Flower_girl on 16/01/2011</em>
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Latest post on 16 January 2011 - 17:38
NathashaK - I'll be travelling to Europe end of this month if you can buy online and get it delivered to me, am happy to bring this back for you. <em>edited by Flower_girl on 17/01/2011</em>
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Latest post on 16 January 2011 - 16:47
Other posters have already given you some estimated cost.... am just here to inform you that should you wish to 'save money' - you can have your dog vaccinated and municipality tagged done at the Municipality Vet in Khawaneej for half the cost (160 for vaccine and 10 for the tag). Grooming can cost you between 150 - 300 per visit. Alternatively you can wash the dog yourself and buy the inital haircutter (which is about dhs 500) and cut the hair yourself - though the nails we still get the pet shop to do it. Check with friends and families (if you have them living here) if they would be open to dogsit your dog whilst you are on holiday ... this arrangement can help you save the money and put it in the medical backup cost for the dog. Dog is part of family and you cna't just leave them behind because financially you can't take care of them ... got to save the money NOW! :)
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Latest post on 16 January 2011 - 16:40
Pre-Maman has them - since wooden Playpen is more of a Dutch/French/Belgian 'thing' (could be more countries too though). Just Kidding has them too (be prepared to pay a lot of money for it). Check Dubizzle and/or the Dutch/Belgian community for 2nd hand one. OR - if you have a good carpenter get it made.
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Latest post on 16 January 2011 - 15:00
Thank you for the feedback all! visa was cancelled by 6 Jan - but have not signed any paper to say all has been received - there has been various disputes on flights entitlement and outstanding holidays .... Visa will not be transferred - leaving country for good.
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Latest post on 12 January 2011 - 16:04
If you are like me, who likes to keep that first hair, go to Favourite Things in marina Mall - certificate and all ... after that we either go to other children's salon or just bought the Philips children haircutter and DH cuts DS's hair whilst sitting in his highchair....
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Latest post on 11 January 2011 - 11:26
We did it for our DS back in 2009 and after researching various companies, we decided on StemCells (because they bank for 25 instead of the normal 20 years) the payment option was better too. Recently someone asked the similar question on the main forum: http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=133265 If you do a search on 'stem cell' I think you'll see a few threads on this. Good Luck! ps: we did it because knowing that we can potentially make a difference to our little's one life, should (God for bid) he/she ever needed it.
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Latest post on 10 January 2011 - 15:29
I must be the lucky one ! Im starting tomorrow - part time and they are paying for my visa and 30 days holiday .. You are indeed a lucky one!! All the best for this! for OP - I was a full timer before becoming a part-timer, as far as I know, I get my gratuity calculated like before, but divided into two ... however, all could change with the change of management....
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Latest post on 09 January 2011 - 11:24
I have a few friends who live in Motor City appartments and they have dogs living with them .... and has great walking area for the dogs too. HTH
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Latest post on 09 January 2011 - 10:17
We too used SmartCells - contact Sarah on 050 453 2936 or 04 429 8382 You need to contact the company BEFORe you go to hospital as they will need to give you a kit that will be given to your doctor- so they can take YOUR blood before/after giving birth, and they need the bag to collect the blood from the baby during birth too. you then call the likes of SmartCells to collect the blood - and Sarah will send DHL guy to pick it up and send it off to UK directly. 6 months down the line, you will need your blood taken again, and again, kit and all is delivered to your preferred doctor/clinic. Easy and smooth service. <em>edited by Flower_girl on 09/01/2011</em>
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Latest post on 09 January 2011 - 10:07
Contact Top Class Real Estate - owner: raj Dooa (o50 451 2633) He also lives in Falcon City. not sure about 2 beds ... but you can always ask.